Laser hair removal: Post-treatment Q&A

Just finished your first laser hair removal session? 

Great! Here are some common questions and answers that will help you stay safe, healthy, and happy throughout the entire process.
 

Will there be redness or swelling of my treated areas?

Yes. Expect to see some redness and swelling, which may:

• Feel similar to the sensation of a sunburn
• Be most noticeable within the first two or three hours of your treatment
• Subside completely two to three days after your treatment

 

How can I soothe my treated areas following the procedure?

To reduce discomfort, mild redness, and swelling:

• Use a cold pack or soothing gel/cream for the first few hours after treatment

 

To treat follicular inflammation (swelling at hair follicle):

• Ask us about a topical steroid that is right for you

 

To treat rare instances of blistering:

• Apply a thin layer of over-the-counter antibiotic ointment and contact our office at (716) 712.1050.

 

Can I wear makeup after my laser hair removal treatment?

Yes. If no blistering is present, you may use mineral makeup (which is easy to remove). 

• Pro tip: Use a new (clean) makeup applicator to reduce the possibility of infection

 

Can I use deodorants or fragrances on treated areas?

Yes, but only if the skin is free of irritation. If your skin is red, blotchy, or itchy—do not use deodorants or fragrances.  

 

Can I go in the sun after my laser hair removal treatment?

We do not recommend sun exposure because it can cause hyperpigmentation (the darkening of your skin), so try to stay out of the sun for at least two weeks after your procedure. If you are spending time outside, use a sunscreen that is SPF 30 or higher and contains zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide; maintain this routine throughout the entirety of your treatment.

 

My skin is itchy. Am I allowed to scratch?

No! Avoid scratching or picking at your treated skin.

 

How should I go about hair removal on my own?

Short answer: Stick to shaving. 

Long answer: Your personal hair removal process includes a few dos and don’ts. For the duration of your treatment, DO NOT:

• Use electrolysis
• Wax
• Tweeze
• Pluck
• Bleach your hair

These hair removal modalities may disturb your hair follicle. Instead, YOU CAN:

• Shave
• Use scissors

 

Will my hair grow back?

Not for at least three weeks after your treatment. However, your body’s natural response to the laser hair removal procedure will be to push out the “dead” hair follicle. This might give the appearance of hair growth, but you can simply remove this hair with a wet washcloth, sponge, or loofah.

 

Should I switch up my bath or shower situation?

Nope! Your bathing routine can stay the same, but just remember to treat your skin gently.

 

When should I come back for my next laser hair removal treatment?

Wait at least four weeks until your next treatment. From there, we recommend coming back for at least six to eight more treatments, with four to eight weeks of rest in between each.

 

What should I do if I have questions or concerns?

Call our office as soon as you can at (716) 712.1050. Our office hours are:

 

Monday: 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Tuesday: 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Wednesday: 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Thursday: 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Friday: 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Saturday: 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Sunday: CLOSED

 

At the Skin Center at Southgate Medical Group, our laser hair removal process…

1. Is safe
2. Provides lasting results
3. Works on all skin tones
4. Will remove hair from your face, arm, back, legs, and bikini line
5. Takes less than 30 minutes per treatment
6. Uses cooling technology for a relatively pain-free experience
7. Is recommended for use in six to eight treatments, four to eight weeks apart

 

Want to learn more about laser hair removal?

Check out these blogs for what to do before and during your first laser hair removal treatments:

 

Stop in and say hi!

Let’s get together and talk about what you’re looking for so we can help! Contact us or schedule a free consultation today.